Powertec picks up fixed wireless terminal

Telecommunications solutions provider Powertec has launched Ericsson's new W25 Fixed Wireless Terminal (FWT) which allows users to gain access to high speed broadband, phone and fax services without being limited by the availability of a wired infrastructure.

Unlike its W20 predecessor which was limited to the GSM network, the W25 now offers wireless users voice, fax and broadband internet communication via the high-speed 3G HSDPA network.

According Bruce Williamson, general manager at Powertec the maximum download speed is currently 3.6Mbps however users can look forward to download speeds of up to 7.2Mbps once the new 3G network is running at full capacity.

“A slot in a data enabled SIM card, plug in any telephone unit using the standard plug and you can expect to experience crisp voice quality equivalent to that of a land line telephone service,” he said. “Connection to a computer is via the unit’s Ethernet, WiFi or USB ports. Installation is simple and a single terminal provides simultaneous internet access for numerous users.”

The product’s quad-band frequency support (850/900/1900/2100MHz) ensures that the W25 is compatible with frequencies used on different continents around the globe. This is particularly beneficial to the marine market because the unit can be used offshore, using the local mobile network.

Williamson said, “Data services, such as video conferencing, e-mail and the internet can be brought to anyone within mobile reach. Of course, there are also people who would prefer to get rid of their fixed line service altogether and take advantage of the W25s mobile communication applications.”

The W25 routes all calls over the mobile network, all usage is billed at mobile rates, and users can benefit from more cost effective mobile capped plans. It’s also compatible with most PABX systems, allowing similar savings for corporate enterprises, he said.

Combining Ericsson's W25 FWT with the high-speed 3G mobile network allows a comparable broadband service to be deployed quickly and efficiently. However, if the 3G network is not available, the unit will conveniently and seamlessly switch to operating over the GSM network.